PRESIDENT DR. MUIZZU'S BOLD VISION FOR A FULLY DEVELOPED MALDIVES BY 2040

Blessed with immaculate beaches, clear blue waters and an abundance of marine life, the Maldives - a tiny island nation in the Indian Ocean is gearing to transform itself into a fully developed nation by 2040 as envisioned by its President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.

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President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu participating emergency Arab-Islamic summit

Speaking about his vision at the 79th United Nations General Assembly, Dr. Muizzu said that achieving this goal requires increased productivity, digital transformation, and leveraging the country's natural beauty and marine resources.

To support this vision, the President announced plans to boost productivity through institutional reforms, enhance digital connectivity, and improve ICT infrastructure and digital literacy. He also aims to make the digital economy contribute up to 15% of GDP by 2030.

During his address Dr. Muizzu recalled the status of the country at the time of regaining independence in 1965. He said that one-third of the population was illiterate; more than one out of every 10 babies were dying before they reached one year of age; there were no industries and barely any exports and even fewer prospects. But that in just five decades, the nation had bounced back stronger than before, reaching upper middle-income status. He described it as a 'feat to be incredibly proud of.'

He further said that by 2040 he wishes to see the Maldives as a fully-fledged developed nation. "A nation that commands respect, is relevant, and one that embodies resilience. A society that is inclusive and just. A country that exemplifies sustainability and democratic governance," he added.

Dr. Muizzu said that he believes the Maldives can become a developed country by investing in the country's productive capacity, and increasing its productivity. "It could also be done by transforming our economy into one that is fully digitised and driven by artificial intelligence. And most importantly, by leveraging the natural beauty and marine resources of the country," he explained.